Advocacy Programme Specialist: Basic Education at Allan Gray Orbis Foundation

Objectives of Role

Strategic advocacy planning:

• Collaborate with key stakeholders to develop and implement a comprehensive advocacy strategy aligned with national priorities.

Stakeholder engagement:

•  Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders across sectors, including government officials, civil society organizations, academia, and the media.

Flagship events coordination:

• Oversee the planning and execution of flagship events, such as the annual 2030 Reading Panel and associated activities. Ensure these events effectively raise awareness and drive action

Campaign management:

• Provide support to the Right to Read Campaign through the coordination of participating organisations, the coordination of the work plans of each of the streams, developing key campaign communication documents and driving the achievement of the campaign’s key milestones.

Continual advocacy, research and thought leadership:

• Sustain momentum beyond major events through ongoing advocacy efforts and thought leadership initiatives. Engage with policymakers, synthesise key research, produce policy briefs, op-eds, and other materials to reinforce key messages.

Monitoring:

• Establish monitoring mechanisms to track the impact of advocacy efforts. Regularly assess progress, identify challenges, and adapt strategies as needed to maximize effectiveness.
• Represent the BCL and associated initiatives in meetings, conferences, and other forums related to early grade reading advocacy.

Experience and Qualifications

Qualification:

• Honours degree or equivalent in Education, Public Policy, International Development, Law or a related field. Master's degree preferred.

Experience:

•  Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in advocacy, policy analysis, research or related fields, with a focus on education or literacy issues.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful advocacy campaigns, including experience mobilizing stakeholders, influencing policy, and driving systemic change.
• Strong understanding of the education landscape in South Africa, including key stakeholders, policies, and challenges related to early-grade reading.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to articulate complex issues clearly and persuasively in writing and orally.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and effectively in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Experience working with government officials, civil society organizations, and media outlets preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Competencies

• Strategic Thinking
• Stakeholder Management
• Programme Management
• Communication skills
• Research and Analytical thinking
• Problem-solving
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and facilitate collaboration
• Adaptability and agility